Russian rooftoppers breach security, unfurl banner atop 1,454-foot landmark before being taken into custody without injuries

Two thrill-seekers were arrested on Wednesday after breaching security and scaling the antenna of New York City’s iconic Empire State Building to stage a high-risk marriage proposal.

The pair, identified as Russian rooftoppers Angela Nikolau and Ivan Beerkus, reportedly carried out the stunt dressed in all-black outfits with their faces concealed. After reaching the summit of the 1,454-foot (443-meter) skyscraper, they unfurled a large banner bearing the message: “When the power of love beats the love of power, the world knows peace.”

Authorities swiftly responded to the incident, deploying an NYPD helicopter while evacuating visitors from the building’s observation deck as a precaution.

Police confirmed that the situation was contained without injuries. “Two individuals were taken into custody without incident. There are no injuries reported. Charges are pending, and the investigation is still ongoing,” an NYPD spokesperson told AFP.

The banner used in the stunt has since been recovered, as authorities continue to probe how the pair managed to bypass security at one of the world’s most closely monitored landmarks.